Belal
Muhammad believes Max
Holloway should initially play it really safe against Conor
McGregor.
McGregor (22-6) returns to action after a five-year hiatus from the
Ultimate Fighting Championship in a welterweight matchup
against Holloway (27-9) in the main event of
UFC 329 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. While Muhammad foresees
a striking-heavy bout, he believes Holloway should be the one to
initiate wrestling against the returning former two-division
champion.
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Belal Muhammad explains why Max Holloway should wrestle Conor
McGregor early at UFC 329
Muhammad notes that McGregor’s form, speed and power are unknown
after his long layoff. The former welterweight champion believes
“Notorious” could still pose a serious knockout threat in the first
two to three minutes, especially considering his move up to 170
pounds.
The 37-year-old also believes the Irish superstar’s gas tank, which
was an issue even in his prime, will be an even bigger factor
now.
“I think that first three or four minutes, McGregor’s gonna come
out hot,” Muhammad said on his YouTube channel. “When he was at the
top, his cardio was a problem. So now, five years off, extra
muscle, higher weight class, I think his cardio’s gonna be even a
bigger problem.”
According to Muhammad, Holloway should clinch and wrestle McGregor
early in the fight to just stay safe.
“I think probably the person that should initiate grappling should
be Holloway… [McGregor] has definitely added a lot of muscle on his
body. His cardio is gonna get drained,” he added. “So, for
Holloway, I would definitely add in a takedown to wear on him. To
get past the first three to four minutes.”